Upgrades vs. Maintenance: What Really Adds Value to Your Home?
Let’s clear something up right away: just because you replaced the furnace in 2020 doesn’t mean your home is suddenly worth tens of thousands more.
I recently came across a listing that proudly claimed, “Major upgrade: newer furnace in 2020!”
And I’ll be honest-I laughed outloud.
Listen, I’m not knocking functional heating, especially here in the Central Susquehanna Valley where winters are no joke. But calling that an “upgrade” is like bragging that your house has a roof. It’s not a bonus-it’s a basic expectation.
So, let’s talk about the real difference between maintenance and upgrades, and how they impact your home’s value when it comes time to sell.
🔧 Maintenance: The Non-Negotiables That Keep Your Home Marketable
Maintenance is the stuff that keeps your home from falling apart-literally. It doesn't necessarily add value, but neglecting it can absolutely devalue your home.
Here are common examples of maintenance:
Replacing a worn-out roof
Installing a new furnace or water heater
Updating electrical or plumbing for safety
Repairing foundation cracks
Repainting peeling exterior surfaces
Cleaning or replacing gutters
These are things buyers expect to be done. If you don’t take care of them, buyers start tallying up repair costs and subtracting them from their offers-or skipping your home altogether.
✨ Upgrades: The Features That Impress Buyers and Raise Value
Upgrades, on the other hand, are what get buyers excited. They’re the value-boosters-the “wow” factors that can help justify a higher asking price.
Here are some examples of upgrades that can make a real impact:
Replacing Formica countertops with granite or quartz
Installing new kitchen cabinets or updating appliances
Renovating bathrooms with modern tile, fixtures, and lighting
Adding finished square footage (like a basement or bonus room)
Building a deck or patio for entertaining
Installing energy-efficient windows or smart thermostats
These kinds of improvements can move your home from “meh” to “must-see.”
So What’s the Takeaway?
Think of it like this:
Maintenance = keeping your car running
Upgrades = installing a new sound system and leather seats
Both matter. But if your car won’t start, no one cares about the leather seats.
The same goes for your home.
Selling Soon? Start with Maintenance, Then Add Strategic Upgrades
If you're planning to sell in the next year or two, focus first on getting your house in solid condition. That way, when buyers tour your home, they’re not distracted by red flags like a leaky roof or outdated electrical panel.
Once those are handled, then consider cosmetic or lifestyle upgrades that can help boost your listing price and attract more interest.
Not sure where to start or which updates will give you the best return on investment? That’s where I come in.
Need Guidance or Contractor Recommendations?
Whether you’re prepping to sell or just trying to stay ahead of long-term maintenance, I’ve got a go-to list of trusted local pros-roofers, HVAC techs, electricians, designers, you name it.
Want the list or need advice on where to spend your money? Let’s chat. I’ll give it to you straight.
📲 Call or text me at 570-316-7274
💬 Or send me a message!
Sara Hamilton
Your Straight-Shooting Realtor in the Central Susquehanna Valley
Serving Bloomsburg • Danville • Lewisburg and surrounding areas
🌐 BuySellBloom.com
